WAF to replace old pipes for improved service

Salaseini Moceiwai
Monday, February 17, 2014

THE replacement of aging and undersized pipes is among other long-term projects the Water Authority of Fiji will be prioritising this year.

Responding to questions by this newspaper on the continuous work on water mains in the North, CEO Opetaia Ravai said they were committed to providing efficient and improved services to their customers.

"While the authority is committed to restoring supply to our customers by repairing leakages and providing water carting services as a temporary measure, it has also identified other long-term solutions," he said.

"Replacements of old and under-sized pipes and improving infrastructure hydraulics are some of the major projects that have been prioritised by the authority under the 2014 projects.

"High demands and adverse weather conditions have played a significant role in sparking frequent low levels in the reservoirs experienced in most parts of Fiji.

"The demand is superceding supply and the authority is currently working on the best mix of measures to maintain a balance between the demand for water and available supply for urban supply systems now and into the future."

Meanwhile, the authority is also advising its customers to use water wisely.

"We respect people's right to express their frustrations, however, the authority will continue to do the best it can within its resources to service its customers' needs," Mr Ravai said.

"In saying this, we seek the patience of our customers as we roll out our projects but until these projects are completed, water carts will continue to service affected areas as a short-term solution."